Many small builders have limited budgets, and they need a good estimating software that will allow them to maximise their return on investment. The estimating software must be affordable, with easy-to-use features that simplify the process.
Construction estimating software communicates professionalism to clients, and helps businesses win more tenders. It also boosts productivity and saves time.
Spreadsheet-based
The best construction estimating software can help companies improve efficiency and productivity by automating tasks. It can also help them streamline their project management process and improve communication with clients. However, it is important to identify the specific problems that your company faces before choosing a software solution. This will ensure that the system meets its intended purpose.
One of the most popular construction estimation solutions is ProEst, which has been around since 1976 and has worked with a wide range of construction companies. Using their experience, they developed their own software that helps companies create accurate cost estimates and digital takeoffs. This software is available 24/7 and allows users to focus on profit-driving initiatives instead of spending time in Excel.
Another popular choice is Clear Estimates, which provides a simple user interface and allows small builders to quickly and accurately generate project proposals. It can also hide markup costs from potential customers, which is an important feature for small building contractors. It is available with a free trial and plans starting at $59/month.
eTakeoff Dimension is an electronic viewer and CAD estimating software that enables contractors to prepare a construction estimate in less time than manual methods. Its advanced database technology enables it to work with large files, making it ideal for estimating projects that require multiple drawings or have extensive annotations. This software can read any file format and offers features such as text, lines, shapes, clouds, arrows, and dimensions.
Database-driven
Unlike spreadsheet-based software, database-driven estimating tools store information in a centralised location and generate estimates directly. This makes them a good option for large projects with complex requirements. Aside from storing data in a database, this type of software also includes advanced reporting and integration capabilities. These are important features for a construction business to consider when choosing a software solution.
Some of the best construction estimating software programs include takeoff functionality, which allows estimators to mark, measure and calculate quantities of project resources. In addition, it can help users create accurate cost estimates for their projects. Some software also offers a dashboard overview, which helps engineers monitor tasks and projects. These are helpful in saving time and ensuring accuracy.
The best construction estimating software is based on a database of costs and labor hours, so it can automatically calculate a price for a given piece of work. It can also be used to compare multiple estimates and determine the most cost-effective one. Another benefit of this type of software is that it can save time and money by eliminating human errors in calculations.
HBXL estimating software is easy to use and provides professional results. It contains hundreds of project templates that require minimal input to provide a fast yet detailed quote. It also supports custom branding and offers free trials. It can be integrated with CRMs, email marketing and other tools to provide additional functionality.
Open-source
Some free estimating software packages exist, but most cost between $60 and $250 per month. However, they are typically limited in functionality and often don’t meet a business’s needs. Some also require a monthly fee to receive software updates and support. On the other hand, software that requires a one-time installation costs significantly more upfront, but is usually much more flexible and includes a variety of features.
A good construction estimating software will help you create consistent estimates by using similar procedures and estimation tools every time. This will save you time, and help you manage projects more efficiently. It will also improve collaboration and communication within your company. Some software even provides a centralised platform to collect information and share revisions.
Another type of estimating software is database-driven, which offers many of the same features as spreadsheet-based estimating products but also has more advanced reporting and integration capabilities. Examples of these software include ConEst and Buildertrend, which both offer free product demos that you can schedule with a representative.
Another option is Clear Estimates, which focuses on the construction bidding and estimating process. This software integrates with Buildertrend and Quickbooks, making it easy to link it to a company’s existing workflows. Additionally, it allows users to create accurate, professional estimates and proposals quickly. It also provides costing tools for materials, labour and other items.
Customisation
A construction estimating software program is an essential tool for building companies to create detailed project estimates. This type of software can save time and effort while increasing productivity. These programs can also improve accuracy and support precise cost calculations. Moreover, they can help in predicting the total cost of a project and ensure better budget management.
The best construction estimating software is easy to use, user-friendly, and can be used anywhere. It should provide a comprehensive range of features, including bid day analysis, digital takeoffs, and reporting capabilities. Moreover, it should be able to connect with existing tools, such as groundplan and PlanSwift. Additionally, it should be cloud-based and allow users to work offline.
There are several types of construction estimating software available on the market, including free trial versions and affordable pricing. Some of the top software options include Contractor Foreman, which has a clean user interface and plans that start at $59/month with no contract. Other options include Projul, which offers a simple platform for creating fast and accurate project proposals. It allows small business contractors to hide markup costs, making it a great choice for smaller construction businesses.
Another option is SimPRO, which offers a wide variety of features and integrations, from material databases to supplier cost integration. It can also handle a large amount of data, allowing for highly detailed estimating for each project. The company also offers free scheduled demos and helpful knowledge base articles for new users.